Bendigo Pottery
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Established in 1858 on its current site,
is not only Australia's oldest working pottery, but it is also a complex with many interesting twists and turns to explore.
During the 1850s, George Duncan Guthrie was prospecting for gold near Bendigo Creek when he discovered clay that he believed was suitable for pottery production. A former potter, Guthrie used this clay to create the first pieces of pottery that became known as . Over the years of production, many items with various glazes have been produced by the Pottery and early pieces are sought by collectors. Much of the older pottery is unmarked and can only be identified by its distinctive glaze and style. An on-site interpretative museum allows you to experience and learn about the Pottery's history.
If the museum triggers considerable interest for you, then follow it up with a visit to the
National Museum of Australian Pottery in Holbrook, New South Wales, where you will find an abundance of early Australian pottery including many Bendigo pieces.
Today when you visit
, you can wander around the complex and see the old kilns and beautiful rose gardens, and then go inside to the sales gallery, observe potters at work, take a wheel-throwing lesson, or relax in the cafe. During school holidays, the kids can immerse themselves in one of the clay activities or workshops.
There are also other on-site galleries including the
Potiche Gallery, which displays a range of pottery created by central Victorian potters. The
Paynter Gallery holds regular arts and ceramics exhibitions.
Yvonne George , a well-known sculptor, has her
Artizen Gallery and working studio on site.
The heritage-listed stables built in 1873 sit between the Moliagul Store and the Function Centre. Inside the main building there is an
information centre and if you like collectables, you can get lost in the
Antique and Collectables Centre.
The Great Australian Olive Oil Store is also located on the Pottery grounds. Here you will find regional produce including olive oil, olives, chutneys and sauces, and wines.
The annual
Bendigo Olive Fiesta is worth keeping in mind. The Fiesta is held in March at the and is conducted by local Rotary clubs. It is a day of fun, music, and food, and promotes the region's olive growers as well as raising funds for Rotary projects.
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96046 - 2023-06-12 02:32:25